Axminster adventurer swaps flying fighter jets for charity drive across desert

Mac Mackenney, a former trainee fighter pilot from Axminster, is leading a group of 13 teams on a driving expedition across the Sahara Desert as part of a 17-day fundraising adventure, which begins in Morocco today.

The Sahara Rally, supported by ODYSSEY® Battery, will see participants take on the original Dakar Rally route from the Algerian border to the Atlantic Ocean in a car of their choice, whether it's the latest 4x4 or an old banger that has seen better days. 

Originally set up as an initiative to help ex-military personnel recovering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the Sahara Rally is the brainchild of Mac Mackenney.

The expedition leader trained as an RAF fighter pilot until his career took a different path after suffering a panic attack during a solo flight. 

Mac has now re-discovered his passion for adventure and is on a mission to encourage others to take on the most challenging and remote environments on earth with expeditions such as the Sahara Rally.

Since starting his own company, Max Adventure, he spends much of his time organising adventures for military veterans and has extended the Sahara Rally to include thrill-seekers from all walks of life looking to experience the original Dakar Rally route and raise money for charity along the way. 

Speaking on the Sahara Rally, he said: "The idea first came about a few years ago as a way of supporting military veterans living with PTSD and since then the expedition has really gained momentum.

"While many of those taking part are ex-military personnel, we're also joined by drivers who are simply looking for a challenge, adventure and some fun. Although the Sahara Rally is a non-competitive driving expedition, it requires endurance, stamina and resilience.

"Our support vehicles are powered by ODYSSEY® batteries, which are specially designed to handle extreme temperatures and tough conditions, so having enough cranking power to start the engine is never a concern but there's always a real sense of camaraderie as we pull together to overcome many other issues.

"Battling through arduous terrain in such a challenging environment can be tough as we tackle everything from punctured tyres and damaged exhausts to endless vehicle recoveries from soft sand. 

"We always say the older the vehicle, the more fun you have and one rule we always follow is that nobody is left stranded. We're really looking forward to the next Sahara Rally, it really is an incredible experience."

Derek Tyrer, Marketing Manager for ODYSSEY® Battery, produced by leading manufacturer, EnerSys®, added: "Mac and his team are so passionate about encouraging people to rise to the challenge and we're extremely proud to support the Sahara Rally, as well as the fundraising efforts of those taking part, as the expedition continues to grow."

During the next few weeks, in what he hopes will become a growing annual expedition, Mac and his crew will guide adventurers across the desert as they tackle the towering sand dunes of Erg Chebbi and negotiate the mountain passes of the High Atlas.

Participating teams will be raising funds for charities such as the Royal British Legion and Myeloma UK. 

ODYSSEY® batteries are used for their exceptional power and durability, as well as their capacity for handling extreme temperatures and tough conditions. The rugged, Absorbed Glass Mat, Thin Plate Pure Lead military-inspired design protects against high-impact shock and mechanical vibration, helping to provide longer service life for high-demand applications on and off road. 

Discover more about ODYSSEY® batteries at eu.odysseybattery.com and for further information on the Sahara Rally, please visit driventoextremes.co.uk